Cafe Lead

Description

Café Lead

Company: Verde Canyon Railroad

Location: Clarkdale, Arizona

Reports to: Copper Spike Café Lead

Classification: Non-exempt, Hourly, Full-time/Part-time

The Café Lead supports the Copper Spike Café Manager in overseeing daily food and beverage operations, ensuring passengers consistently receive a first-class experience. This role assists with training staff, maintaining high standards of food preparation and presentation, and ensuring operational safety, efficiency, and exceptional customer service.

• Leadership & Staff Support
  • Collaborate with the Café Manager to guide and support team members.
  • Oversee training in all café positions; assign new hires to experienced staff.
  • Ensure new employees have relevant manuals and understand expectations.
  • Monitor staff performance and enforce company policies and procedures.
  • Assist with creating and maintaining work schedules, including managing the “extra board” for part-time staff.
• Operational Oversight
  • Assist with café opening and closing procedures.
  • Verify preorders and onboard appetizers for presentation, accuracy, and freshness.
  • Help create menus and ensure recipes are followed.
  • Maintain a safe work environment and ensure compliance with rules, guidelines, and health codes.
  • Ensure staff provide exceptional guest service.
  • Coordinate with reservations staff for daily passenger needs and adjustments.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support business operations and team needs.
• Inventory & Financial Support
  • Assist with placing orders for supplies and products.
  • Support monthly inventory counts and related reporting.
• General Support & Manager Absence
  • Support the Café Manager in daily operations and team management.
  • Oversee café operations in the manager’s absence.
  • Assist with catering and special events, including menu planning and organization.

• High school diploma or equivalent; college or culinary degree preferred.
• Minimum age 21.
• At least three years of food and beverage service experience, including one year in a leadership role.
• Able to lift 50 lbs. unassisted.
• Must pass a drug screening and background check.

• Valid Food Handler’s Certification and Alcohol Certification.
• Knowledge of food and beverage operations, including knife skills.
• Proficiency in Excel, Word, and POS systems (Revel preferred).
• Reliable, responsible, and a team player.
• Excellent money-handling and time management skills.
• Flexible schedule including weekends, holidays, and varying shifts.
• Proficiency in all café positions.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support business operations and team needs.
• Flexible availability, including weekends and all days of the week, based on operational needs.
• Ability to perform duties for extended periods in environments with high heat and direct sun exposure.